This ePolicyWorks online dialogue explores how autonomous vehicles can be leveraged to expand access to competitive, integrated jobs for people with disabilities and what issues policymakers should consider when developing legislation, regulations, or other policies that govern autonomous vehicles.

This dialogue is now closed. Please check back for future dialogues and check out the ideas posted below.

Self-Driving Cars: The Impact on People With Disabilities

A report commissioned by the Ruderman Family Foundation and written by Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) has revealed that two million employment opportunities could be opened up, and $19 billion in annual healthcare expenditures could be saved, if people with disabilities had access to the basic transportation needs that could be provided by autonomous vehicles.

ODEP, together with its partners, is hosting a series of online dialogues to gather input and ideas from the public and other stakeholders, including subject matter experts, on how new transportation technology, including autonomous vehicles, can support the employment of people with disabilities. Information collected during these dialogues will play an integral role in ODEP’s and SAFE’s efforts to develop resources and materials to enhance understanding of AV technology and how it can be of use to people with disabilities as they seek stable and long-term employment. Participants ideas and comments will be shared with AV developers and policymakers to ensure that everyone benefits from autonomous vehicles including people with disabilities.